There’s something particularly special about gathering friends and family around an outdoor fireplace—we all love the warmth, the crackling sounds, and that mesmerizing glow against the evening Colorado sky. But even this beloved feature of our homes tends to need some of that TLC. Over time, and through continual use, soot, ash, and regular weather can dull its beauty and even impact how well it functions. A little routine upkeep, however, can keep your fireplace looking great and burning safely for years to come. From the natural stone experts at the Rock Garden, what follows are some simple steps to keep your outdoor hearth in peak condition so it’s always ready for cozy nights and memorable moments.
Taking a bit of time to clean and maintain your outdoor fireplace does more than just keep it looking nice; it also keeps it safe and long-lasting. Over time, fireplaces collect layers of ash, soot, and debris, which can tarnish their appearance and affect their performance. Soot buildup, for instance, isn’t just unsightly—it can also clog up your chimney or flue, increasing the risk of smoke problems or even a fire hazard. Even for open-aired fire rings, a build-up of ash can make it more difficult to kindle the perfect flame.
Fireplaces made of artificial materials are a nightmare to clean, but natural stone fireplaces also certainly need a bit of regular care. The stones themselves are of course durable, but they’re also porous. This means that dirt, moisture, and other types of grime like ash can make their way into the stone’s surface over time. If the stone isn’t tended and the impurities are allowed to build up, this wear and tear can lead to discoloration or weakened stone.
Beyond the safety and functional considerations, cleaning and maintaining your fireplace preserves its unique charm and aesthetic appeal. By dedicating a little effort to upkeep, you’re protecting your investment while simultaneously ensuring it’ll be ready for a warmup, season after season.
Here’s a quick list of essentials to keep your outdoor fireplace in top shape:
The first step is the easiest but also one of the most important. Begin by physically removing any leftover ash, wood remnants, leaves, and other debris from the firebox/the base of the fire ring. This is done by levering an ash scoop or small shovel to collect the ashes, then disposing of them in a metal container. Clearing out the firebox or fire ring regularly prevents buildup, which can affect airflow and burn quality.
For the stone itself, use a soft-bristle brush and a mild, stone-safe cleaner. Apply the cleaner to the stone and gently scrub away soot, stains, and dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners, as they can harm the natural stone. Next, rinse the area with water from your bucket or hose to remove any remaining cleaner, careful not to use too much, as excess water may seep into the stone and the mortar and weaken it.
Up next, you’ll want to remove the metal grate and all other metal parts and clean them separately. For fire rings, check to see if the interior of your ring features a metal cover—if this is removable, do so. Wash it with a non-abrasive cleaner or soap and water, focusing on gently scrubbing off any burnt-on residue or rust. Afterward, dry it thoroughly to prevent rust from forming.
If you have an open-air fire ring, you can ignore this step. For those with an outdoor fireplace with a chimney, this one's for you. Check the chimney or flue for any significant buildup of soot or debris. Excessive buildup can restrict airflow, causing smoke to back up or even creating a fire hazard. If there’s heavy soot buildup or hard-to-reach areas, it may be time to call a professional chimney cleaner. For light buildup, using a long brush can help keep the flue clear.
Keeping your outdoor fireplace in great shape doesn’t take much more than a few simple habits:
If your outdoor fireplace is starting to show its age—whether via cracks, discoloration, or general wear—it might be time to consider an upgrade. Natural stone is by far the best choice for durability, beauty, and ability to withstand the weather. Over the years, stone has become the preferred material for outdoor fireplaces, as it adds value and a warm, rustic charm to any outdoor space.
At The Rock Garden, we offer an impressive selection of natural stone that’s perfect for building or updating the outdoor fireplace you want! Northern Colorado residents can visit our garden and see these stones for yourself. We have natural stone to complement or enhance any style or surrounding, whether you're aiming for a more traditional look, something more modern, or something even more out there. If you’re ready to refresh your fireplace or create a brand-new one, come by and explore our quality stone options. Our team is here to help you find the right fit to create an outdoor fireplace you’ll love gathering around year after year.